Complete Cauda Equina Syndrome Delays and Compensation for Medical Negligence
If medical professionals have the opportunity to diagnose this appalling condition at an early stage, it is essential that they do so. Failing to prevent further deterioration through a delay in diagnosis can end in a claim for compensation for the devastating impact of this shocking condition.
Delayed diagnosis of cauda equina compression
A delay in the diagnosis of compression of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine can mean that the patient's symptoms worsen dramatically during the period of delay to the point where they may be experiencing incontinence of both bowel and bladder as well as suffering loss of mobility and loss of sexual function.
By this point, these appalling symptoms may have become irreversible whereas, with earlier diagnosis, the patient may have experienced a degree of recovery and suffered less severe effects.
If medical professionals are considered as responsible for the deterioration having allowed an unnecessary delay in diagnosis and surgery, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the pain, suffering and financial losses suffered by the patient.
Negligence in the diagnosis of cauda equina compression
A range of circumstances may be regarded as negligent where the medical professional has missed an opportunity of early diagnosis:
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient's signs and symptoms
- A failure to identify the significance of the patient's symptoms
- A misdiagnosis of the patient's symptoms
- A failure to understand the urgency of the patient's condition
- A failure to provide adequate or any red flag advice as to the symptoms which should prompt the patient to seek immediate medical input
- A delay in making a referral for an MRI scan or a complete failure to make a referral for an MRI scan
- A delay by the hospital in arranging for an MRI scan to be carried out
Making a claim
If you suspect that either you or a loved one have suffered due to a negligent delay in the diagnosis of your condition, you need to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor with experience of cauda equina syndrome claims.
These claims are extremely complex and associated with strict procedures and deadlines. A high degree of expertise is essential to investigate the quality of your medical care and, where appropriate, construct and pursue your claim.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a specific focus on cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about your situation and the possibility of making a claim.
We can offer No Win No Fee funding for medical negligence claims which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.



